The Morris Law Firm can help and has specific knowledge and experience as a Boating Under the Influence (BUI) defense attorney. Melinda Morris, managing partner of The Morris Law Firm, served on the DUI Manslaughter / Vehicular Homicide Squad while a State Attorney, and was responsible for prosecuting very serious DUI and BUI cases from investigation through trial. As well, Ms. Morris received special training on prosecuting DUI and BUI cases from the State of Florida. For a BUI Lawyer, this inside knowledge is of critical importance and can benefit the defense of your case.
A person is guilty of the offense of boating under the influence if the person is operating a vessel within this state and:
The person is under the influence of alcoholic beverages, any chemical substance set forth in s. 877.111, or any substance controlled under chapter 893, when affected to the extent that the person's normal faculties are impaired;
The person has a blood-alcohol level of 0.08 or more; or
The person has a breath-alcohol level of 0.08 or more.
ACT NOW TO CONSULT WITH AN ATTORNEY AND FIND OUT HOW TO BEST PROTECT YOUR RIGHTS AND FUTURE OPPORTUNITIES. BUI CONSEQUENCES CAN BE FAR REACHING, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO: JAIL TIME; PROBATION; FORFEITURE OR IMPOUNDMENT OF YOUR VESSEL; NEGATIVELY AFFECTING YOUR EMPLOYMENT, MILITARY, OR ACADEMIC STATUS; AND INELIGIBILITY TO HAVE YOUR RECORD SEALED.
What is the penalty for a first conviction of BUI?
Up to a $500 fine, up to six (6) months in jail, probation, community service hours, a substance abuse evaluation and treatment, and a ten (10) day impound of your vessel.
What is the penalty for a second conviction of BUI?
Up to a $1000 fine, up to nine (9) months in jail (10 days mandatory if second conviction within 5 years), probation, community service hours, a substance abuse evaluation and treatment, and a thirty (30) day impound of your vessel.
What is the penalty for a third conviction (within 10 years) of BUI?
A third conviction within ten (10) years becomes a felony, punishable by more than one (1) year in prison.
What is the penalty for a fourth conviction of BUI?
Any fourth conviction of Boating Under the Influence (regardless of time frame) is a felony and is punishable by more than one (1) year in prison.
What if I have a previous conviction for DUI in addition to my recent BUI arrest?
A previous convition for DUI counts as an enhancement for a subsequent arrest and conviction of BUI.
What makes BUI penalties more severe?
BUI penalties can be enhanced by:
A breath test of .20 or higher, or
Having a minor present on the vessel
What are the consequences of refusing to submit to a breath test in a BUI investigation?
Refusal to submit to a breath test in a BUI investigation can result in a $500 civil penalty.
What are the consequences of BUI with Serious Bodily Injury and BUI Manslaughter?
BUI with Serious Bodily Injury and BUI Manslaughter are felonies and are punishable similar to their DUI counterparts..
